Low Back Pain Red Flag Check

This short checklist is not a diagnosis, but it can help flag symptoms that sometimes need medical attention before hands-on treatment. If you are ever in doubt, please contact your GP, NHS 111, or A&E.

1. Did your back pain start after a serious accident or fall (e.g. road traffic accident, fall from height, or heavy impact)?

Yes No

2. Since your back pain started, have you had any new problems controlling your bladder or bowels (difficulty passing urine, leaking, or not realising you’ve passed urine or stool)?

Yes No

3. Do you have numbness or tingling around your inner thighs, genitals, or anus (the “saddle area”)?

Yes No

4. Have you noticed progressive weakness or numbness in one or both legs over hours or days?

Yes No

5. Do you feel feverish, shivery, or generally very unwell with your back pain (as if you might have an infection)?

Yes No

6. Do you have a history of cancer and now have new, significant back pain that isn’t easing?

Yes No

7. Is your back pain worse at night or when lying down, and not much changed by movement or position during the day?

Yes No

8. Have you had unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or ongoing fatigue together with your back pain?

Yes No

9. Have you recently had a significant infection, intravenous drug use, or are you on strong immune-suppressing medication?

Yes No

Your result

This tool does not provide a diagnosis and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are worried about your symptoms, please contact your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services.